Financial Controller

The opportunity

Hays are partnering with a growing and ambitious, privately owned business in Southampton to recruit a Financial Controller role. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant looking to step into a highly visible position where they can directly influence business performance, support strategic decision-making and play a key role in the continued development of the finance function.

Working closely with senior leadership, operational teams and project stakeholders, you will provide commercial insight across the organisation while taking ownership of financial reporting, forecasting, cash flow management and financial control. More than a traditional reporting role, this position offers the chance to become a trusted business partner and help drive operational and financial improvements across the company.

A key focus of the role will be strengthening financial processes, improving reporting capabilities and supporting several exciting business improvement initiatives, including the selection and implementation of new finance systems and the development of finance policies and procedures. You will also lead and develop a small finance team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement while ensuring the business has the financial information and controls required to support future growth.

What you'll need to succeed

You will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with previous experience in a Financial Controller, Finance Manager or similar senior finance role.

You'll combine strong technical accounting expertise with commercial awareness and the confidence to engage with stakeholders across all levels of the business.

Experience managing audits, statutory accounts, budgeting, forecasting and cash flow planning will be essential, alongside a proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.

Just as importantly, you'll be a natural leader who enjoys developing people, building relationships and using financial insight to influence business decisions.

What you'll get in return

Opportunity to join a growing business in a key leadership role

Broad remit with genuine strategic input

Exposure to senior stakeholders and board-level reporting

Chance to shape systems, p...